Green streaks across dark blue sky seen off the bow of a small ship on the Northern Lights Explorer cruise in the Arctic.
Tandem kayakers in red boat paddle calm water by large blue glacier under cloudy Arctic skies on the Northern Lights Explorer.
Inlet onto white rocky beach with grassy cliffs & blue sky above, seen on the Northern Lights Explorer cruise in the Arctic.
Arctic traveler & guide stand on rocky green tundra by geothermal clouds on a Northern Lights Explorer cruise in the Arctic,
Green and purple streaks of Northern Lights seen above a rocky mountain at night, seen on a Northern Lights Explorer cruise.
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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Northern Lights Explorer Cruise

Explore remote islands and villages in the regions renown for the dazzling light show that is the aurora borealis. Shorter days in the high latitudes means darkening evening skies. As night falls, look skywards hoping to catch the magic of the northern lights. This spectacular natural phenomenon offers a surreal light display as vibrant hues of blue, green, pink and violet dance across the night sky. Places located near the Arctic Circle such as northern Norway, Iceland and Greenland, are some of the best places in the world to witness this stunning light show.

Sail from Reykjavik, Iceland aboard 132-guest Greg Mortimer. This far-reaching route stays close to the coastlines of the Arctic Circle, skirting around the Norwegian and Greenland seas, to include Jan Mayen, the Faroe Islands, Iceland’s remote Westfjords and Greenland’s Scoresbysund. Consider the opportunity to add on kayaking, one-time paddling and stand-up paddleboarding to the adventure.

Aside from opportunities to see the northern lights, the highlights of this expedition cruise are many. Just south of the Arctic Circle, explore Vega Island, an important center for the production of eider duck down and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Attempt to land on Jan Mayen, home to Mount Beerenberg, the northernmost active volcano in the world. Discover the world’s largest fjord system at Greenland’s Scoresbysund, an unbeatable place to photograph dazzling icebergs. And hike among Iceland’s remote Westfjords for splendid scenery and very few other people.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s specialty northern lights cruisesIceland cruises, Greenland cruises, and other Arctic cruises and Arctic trips.



Itinerary

Northern Lights Explorer Itinerary

This 19-day Northern Lights itinerary sails from Kirkenes, Norway to Reykjavik, Iceland, and does not visit the Faroe Islands but adds a day exploring western Iceland. Sail in the regions renown for the dazzling light show that is the aurora borealis.

A map showing the cruise route of a Northern Lights itinerary sailing in Norway, Iceland, Jan Mayen & Greenland.
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Day 1
Arrive Kirkenes, Norway

Having made your way to Kirkenes, you will be met by a ship representative and transferred to the group hotel. Upon arrival at the included hotel, please visit the hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with the ground operations team, who may have information to share about pre-embarkation and where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last-minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.

Accommodations

Thon Hotel Kirkenes (or similar)

Meals

n/a

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Day 2
Embark Kirkenes

This morning, ensure any cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags and take it down to hotel reception. Luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of embarkation. Keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.

After a leisurely breakfast, check out of your room before commencing an excursion of Kirkenes and surrounds. Transfer to the pier for embarkation in the late afternoon, when you will have time to settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings and enjoy the thrill of departure as the crew “throws the lines” and sets sail. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and the friendly expedition team and crew at the captain’s welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, dinner

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Days 3 - 6
Norwegian Coast

Over the next few days explore parts of Norway’s remarkable 600-mile coastline. Starting in North Cape, in the very north of the country, make your way south, stopping in the Lofoten Islands and visiting mesmerizing Mount Torghatten, famous for the hole through its center.

The spectacular northern lights is a natural phenomenon that is most commonly seen in the sky above the Arctic Circle, between late autumn and early spring. As we are near North Cape in northern Norway, keep a close watch in hope of witnessing this dazzling spectacle in the night sky. The North Cape is located at a latitude of 71° 10´ 21 and is Europe’s northernmost point. Here enjoy a short walk, visit the North Cape Hall and perhaps sample some local treats.

Enjoy a Zodiac cruise through spectacular Trollfjord, a gorge flanked by steep mountains and so narrow that it can only be accessed by small ships. In the Lofoten Islands, voted by National Geographic as one the of the most beautiful destinations in the world, stroll through picturesque villages dotted with red and white fishers’ huts, surrounded by soaring granite peaks. Visit the Lofoten Seafood Center and learn about the impressive cod fisheries and perhaps sample some local seafood.

Crossing south of the Arctic Circle, visit the Vega archipelago, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. Vega Island is fantastic for birdwatching and here eider ducks are the main attraction, where they are raised for their down, which at one point accounted for one third of the islanders’ income. The islanders still make houses for the birds to nest in and in return, the ducks provide valuable down when they and their chicks leave the nests to continue their lives at sea. The archipelago reflects a traditional way of life that has not changed for more than 1,500 years. On nearby Torget Island, aim to land and hike to Torghatten, a fascinating rock formation with an equally interesting legend describing the hole in the mountain as having been created by a troll’s arrow.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
At Sea

Enjoy the crossing to Jan Mayen, accompanied by seabirds as you search for whales. Listen to informative talks from the ship’s team of experts, get to know your fellow expeditioners, stay active in the gym or treat yourself to a massage in the wellness center. Remember to look to the skies at night and hope for sightings of the northern lights.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Jan Mayen Island

The approach to Jan Mayen is spectacular. The huge Beerenberg volcano is the world’s northernmost active volcano, last erupting in 1985. The northern part of the island is a great place to look for whales and dolphins, and contains impressive glaciers, some of which reach the sea. If the weather is friendly, try to land at Kvalrossbukta, a relatively sheltered bay on the island’s west coast. This is one of the landings used to supply the Norwegian weather station at Olonkinbyen, a settlement situated on the eastern side of the island. Your guides aim to land in front of the station at Olonkinbyen, so as to visit before embarking on a three-hour hike (weather permitting) back across the island to where the ship will be waiting in Kvalrossbukta, with the trusty Zodiacs  transporting you back to the ship.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 9
At Sea

The series of onboard lectures continue as you sail towards the wild coast of East Greenland. You will learn about sea ice, glaciers, the unique geology found in East Greenland and daring tales of European exploration. You are also in the prime zone to view the northern lights, so glance up to the skies and you might just see more than shimmering stars.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 10 - 13
East Greenland

In the coming days, a host of choices are available, and depending on ice and weather conditions, the east coast of Greenland is yours to explore. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to tailor the itinerary on a day-to-day basis. This allows the captain to make best use of the prevailing weather, ice conditions and encounters with wildlife. The guides generally attempt up to two landings or Zodiac excursions per day, including cruising along spectacular ice cliffs, following whales feeding near the surface.

Be prepared to experience ice – and lots of it! East Greenland contains some of the Arctic’s most impressive scenery. Deep fjords and narrow channels, flanked by sharp ice-clad peaks soaring up to 6,562 feet, and glaciers birthing gigantic icebergs that drift throughout the fjord system, combine to create breathtaking scenes.

The tundra landscape is home to musk oxen, arctic hare and reindeer. Throughout the area, there are ancient Thule archaeological sites, historical trappers’ huts and the cabins of present-day Inuit hunters. A highlight is a visit to the Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit, the most isolated and northernmost permanent settlement in the region, with approximately 450 inhabitants. The community has an excellent museum, gift shop, an abundance of Greenlandic sled dogs and provides the opportunity to meet the friendly locals.

Explore Scoresbysund, the world’s largest fjord and a favorite hunting ground of the local Inuit. Massive glaciers flow into this fjord, the birthplace of hundreds of majestic Greenland icebergs. It is a spectacular place that simply needs to be seen to be believed. North of Scoresbysund lie Kong Oskar and Kaiser Franz Josef fjords, two of the most significant fjord systems in Greenland, each one encompassing several smaller fjords and sounds. Thanks to the fertile volcanic soil and the surrounding mountains offering protection from strong winds, the area is rich in wildlife. You may spot everything from musk ox and arctic foxes to mountain hares, and even reindeer, near the fjord. Look skyward and you could catch a glimpse of birds, including the glaucous gull, black-legged kittiwake, northern fulmar, common raven and common eider.

Another highlight is an attempt to enter Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord, a remote and rarely visited fjord system with countless opportunities for exploration, located within the Northeast Greenland National Park. Cruising through Kong Oskar Fjord, marvel at the geological beauty of the mountains. Then head south along the coast of Liverpool Land, with your passage dependent on ice conditions.

Stretch your legs on hikes across tundra in search of ancient graveyards and summer villages occupied 3,000 years ago by Inuit. Look for musk ox, arctic hare and reindeer grazing. The maze of calm, interconnecting waterways in this area provides excellent opportunities for sea kayaking. See ring seals, perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive narwhal, and maybe even a polar bear hunting on pack ice.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 14
At Sea

Crossing the Denmark Strait to Iceland, search for whale blows and photograph the many seabirds that trail your ship in the ever-present arctic winds. The dark night skies promise more opportunities to experience the northern lights.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 15- 18
Iceland

Over the coming days, explore the Westfjords region, which features outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer, table-top mountains that plunge into the sea, and pristine north Atlantic vegetation. The region features attractive towns such as as Isafjordur, the famous Dynjandi waterfall, and spectacular fjords that are ideal for kayaking, hiking and birdwatching.

In genuine expeditionary style, your itinerary is flexible to allow for spontaneity. Plan to visit Hornstrandir peninsula, one of Iceland’s remotest and most pristine regions, which is filled with deep and dramatic fjords, towering bird cliffs, stunning natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife encounters. Enjoy the bountiful silence and magnificent landscapes seen by the few adventurers that make their way here. In Húsavik, known as the country’s whale-watching capital, hope to have magical encounters with the many whales that visit this part of Iceland.

Accommodations

Greg Mortimer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 19
Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland

During the early morning, cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at approximately 8:00am. Say farewell to your expedition team upon disembarkation before transferring to the Keflavik airport or your centrally located hotel.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Arrival transfer from airport to hotel on Day 1; one night’s hotel accommodation in Kirkenes on Day 1 (including breakfast on Day 2); welcome reception/pre-embarkation briefing on Day 1; group transfer to airport or hotel in Reykjavik on Day 19; onboard accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service; all meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage; beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner; Captain’s Welcome & Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, and non-alcoholic beverages; all shore excursions & Zodiac cruises; educational lectures and guiding services from expedition team; complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult); a 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket; complimentary use of muck boots during the voyage; comprehensive pre-departure information; port surcharges, permits and landing fees.

Exclusions

International or domestic flights, unless specified in the itinerary; transfers not mentioned in the itinerary; airport arrival or departure taxes; passport, visa and vaccination charges; travel insurance, emergency evacuation charges or personal insurance (required); hotels and meals not included in itinerary; optional excursions not included in the itinerary; optional activity surcharges; all items of a personal nature including but not limited to: alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, email or phone charges, gratuities of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of $2,500 is required per person at time of booking (additional nonrefundable $250 deposit is required for optional activities). The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 days or more – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Northern Lights Explorer cruise begins in Kirkenes, Norway (KKN), and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Plan flights to arrive to Kirkenes any time on Day 1, but we highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. An arrival transfer to the group hotel is included, and arrival by midday is ideal to have time to settle in. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. A group transfer to the airport is included following disembarkation. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Birdwatching, walking, Zodiac cruising, photography tips, lectures, a polar plunge & all trips ashore are included in the rate. Various optional activities may be available, with per-personprices starting at: kayaking $1,190(2024). For the kayaking program, join 20 like-minded paddlers (in small groups of 10 per guide) to fully experience nature at its wildest. Please contact AdventureSmith for details on which activities are available on your specific departure date and to reserve space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Solo travelers willing to share may be matched with a person of the same gender, and if the other cabin berth goes unsold, will only pay the standard double-occupancy rate. 

Families & Children

Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children between 8-17 years of age must pay the adult price of the expedition.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers, signed by their doctor, is required for every departure. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum required coverage of $250,000 USD per person, covering medical, accident and repatriation/emergency evacuation, as well as baggage loss and cancellation or curtailment of holiday. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Sep 08 - Sep 26, 2024
Greg Mortimer • 19 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $19195USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn All About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Greg Mortimer

The Greg Mortimer is a new, icebreaker polar expedition ship. Carrying an average of 132 guests, this small ship features a unique bow designed for efficiency. It features active programming with adventure gear for backcountry skiing, polar diving, snowshoeing, climbing and kayaking.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires June 30th, 2024
Save Up to 20% + $1,500 Air Credit On Select 2024 Arctic Expeditions

Save up to 15% and receive $1,500 in air credit per person when you book your 2024 Arctic expedition cruise aboard the Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle.

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Offer expires June 30th, 2024
Save Up to 25% On 2025 Arctic & Northern Europe Expedition Cruises

Save up to 25% per person when you book your 2025 Arctic or Northern Europe expedition cruise aboard the Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Todd Smith • January 19th, 2021
Expert Aboard: Sylvia Earle & Greg Mortimer Ship Review

Read a detailed ship review about the identical polar sister ships Greg Mortimer & Sylvia Earle and what they offer travelers. Our expert has been aboard and writes this from his firsthand experience.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Several hotel-based trip extensions are available in conjunction with this expedition. Book the 3-day Taste of Oslo extension tour with this cruise for a guided city tour, a boat ride across the Oslo Fjord to the Viking Ship Museum, and visits to the Fram Museum and the Vigeland Sculpture Park; 2 nights accommodation and included meals.

Or, enjoy one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys and then explore picturesque Bergen on the 6-day Norway in a Nutshell extension tour from Oslo to Bergen. This tour includes rail, bus and ferry passes; a full day sightseeing tour; 5 nights accommodation; and more.

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10 Day Land Tour
East Greenland Arctic Adventure

Discover Greenland like never before! The safari-style Base Camp Greenland offers an eye-level vantage point of Arctic icebergs, whales and seals in frigid waters. Kayak, hike and meet local Inuit who live in harmony with nature.

From $12995USD
Jul Aug Sep
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11 Day Land Tour
Iceland Adventure: Circling the Land of Fire & Ice

On this 11-day Iceland Adventure, experience traditional, remote locales that unveil Iceland's rich natural history in further detail, along with a few major highlights. Enjoy an off-the-beaten-path adventure by land, with time spent on the water too.

From $14695USD
Jul Aug Sep
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